(Newser)
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The State Department said Friday it will not renew Blackwater's contract to protect American diplomats in Iraq when it expires in May. A department spokeswoman said the contract will lapse because of the Iraqi government's decision to deny Blackwater a license to operate, amid lingering outrage over a 2007 shooting incident in Baghdad that left 17 Iraqi civilians dead.

Renewing Blackwater's contract was "a moot point because they were not going to be allowed to operate in Iraq anyway," says a senior department official. Blackwater executives say the company could leave Iraq within 72 hours of being told to do so, but they caution such a move would cause more harm to the diplomats it protects than to the company.

Every time 'Corona_king' spews his vile tantrums and insults, flag him using [flag this comment] . Its the only way we'll be rid of him and his constant berating insults. He's already been officially and formally addressed - DIRECTLY by NEWSER staff. Warned very clearly, he is to NEVER to abuse anyone. Yet he continues. It is only by your actions WE can make a difference on NEWSER. Lets end his endless arrogance, lack of respect and manors.

Mad

Jan 30, 2009 11:20 PM CST

How would it "cause more harm to the diplomats it protects"? They going to shot them too?